Salesforce vs Insightly – CRMs for Small Businesses

Salesforce vs Insightly

• Salesforce:
  • Extensive customization
  • Advanced AI-driven analytics
  • Ideal for large enterprises
  • Higher cost
• Insightly:
  • User-friendly interface
  • Strong project management features
  • Affordable pricing
  • Suitable for small to medium-sized businesses

Salesforce vs Insightly

Salesforce offers extensive customization with custom fields, modules, and workflows. It features advanced AI-driven analytics and automation tools, making it ideal for large enterprises and complex business needs.

However, Salesforce has higher costs and a steeper learning curve. Its strong support network, including the Trailhead learning platform, is a significant advantage.

Insightly provides a user-friendly interface with integrated project management features.

• Affordable pricing: Suitable for small to medium-sized businesses
• Quick implementation: Guided setup with minimal need for external consultants
• Limited advanced features: Less scalability compared to Salesforce

Insightly offers responsive customer support and various training resources, including the Insightly Academy.

Read our guide on how Salesforce compares to Freshsales.

Core Features Comparison

Contact and Lead Management

Salesforce: Features, Capabilities, and Unique Aspects

• Comprehensive Contact Management: Salesforce offers detailed contact profiles, interaction history, and social media integration.
• Advanced Lead Management: Features include lead capture, scoring, nurturing, and automated lead assignment.
• Customization: Extensive options for custom fields, workflows, and modules to tailor processes to business needs.
• Example: A financial services company can use Salesforce to track customer interactions across multiple channels and prioritize leads based on engagement.

Insightly: Features, Capabilities, and Unique Aspects

• User-Friendly Contact Management: Insightly provides an intuitive interface for managing contacts and leads.
• Integrated Lead Management: Features include lead capture, lead routing, and automated follow-ups.
• Project Integration: Unique integration of CRM with project management to manage client relationships and projects in one place.
• Example: A consultancy firm can use Insightly to seamlessly track client interactions and manage related projects.

Sales and Pipeline Management

Salesforce: Sales Pipeline, Forecasting, and Automation Tools

• Visual Sales Pipeline: Track and manage deals through customizable stages.
• Sales Forecasting: Advanced tools to predict sales outcomes and set realistic targets.
• Automation: Workflow automation, process builder, and AI-driven insights to enhance sales productivity.
• Example: A retail business can automate sales processes and use AI to forecast sales trends accurately.

Insightly: Sales Pipeline, Forecasting, and Automation Tools

• Pipeline Management: Visual pipeline to manage deals with drag-and-drop functionality.
• Basic Forecasting: Simple forecasting tools to predict sales outcomes.
• Automation: Workflow automation for repetitive tasks and activity reminders.
• Example: A small tech company can use Insightly’s pipeline management to track deal progress and automate task assignments.

Marketing Automation

Salesforce: Marketing Tools, Campaigns, and Integrations

• Comprehensive Tools: Email marketing, social media management, advertising, and more.
• Campaign Management: Create, execute, and track marketing campaigns with detailed analytics.
• Integrations: Seamless integration with third-party marketing tools and platforms.
• Example: A healthcare provider can manage multi-channel marketing campaigns and track real-time performance metrics.

Insightly: Marketing Tools, Campaigns, and Integrations

• Basic Tools: Email marketing and simple campaign tracking.
• Campaign Management: Manage and track basic marketing campaigns.
• Integrations: Integrates with third-party marketing tools like Mailchimp for enhanced functionality.
• Example: A nonprofit organization can use Insightly’s integration with Mailchimp to send email campaigns and track responses.

Customer Support and Service

Salesforce: Helpdesk, Case Management, and Support Features

• Service Cloud: Comprehensive helpdesk features, including ticketing, case management, and knowledge base.
• Advanced Case Management: Efficient handling of customer issues with automation for case assignment and escalation.
• Support Channels: Live chat, email, phone support, community forums, and self-service portals.
• Example: An online retailer can manage customer service requests and automate follow-up actions to improve response times.

Insightly: Helpdesk, Case Management, and Support Features

• Basic Support Features: Basic helpdesk and case management through third-party integrations.
• Simple Case Management: Track and manage customer inquiries and support tickets.
• Support Channels: Email support and a knowledge base for self-service.
• Example: A startup can use Insightly’s integrations to manage customer support tickets and respond to inquiries promptly.

Reporting and Analytics

Salesforce: Reporting Capabilities, Dashboards, and Analytics Tools

• Extensive Reporting: Customizable reports and real-time data visualization.
• Dashboards: Interactive dashboards to monitor key performance indicators.
• AI-Driven Analytics: Predictive insights to support data-driven decision-making.
• Example: A logistics company can use Salesforce’s reporting tools to analyze delivery performance and optimize routes.

Insightly: Reporting Capabilities, Dashboards, and Analytics Tools

• Simple Reporting: Basic reporting features to track sales performance.
• Dashboards: Visual dashboards to monitor sales activities and performance.
• Basic Analytics: Essential analytics tools to gain insights into sales data.
• Example: A freelance consultant can use Insightly’s simple reporting tools to track sales performance and identify areas for improvement.

Customization and Scalability

Salesforce

Customization Options: Custom Fields, Modules, and Workflows

• Custom Fields: Salesforce allows businesses to create custom fields to capture specific data relevant to their processes. For example, a healthcare provider can add custom fields to track patient information.
• Custom Modules: Users can design custom modules to address unique business requirements. For example, a real estate firm might create modules to manage property listings and client viewings.
• Workflows: Advanced workflow automation enables users to streamline various business processes. For instance, a sales team can set up workflows to automatically assign leads to sales reps based on predefined criteria.

Scalability: How Salesforce Supports Growing Businesses

• Enterprise-Grade Scalability: Salesforce is designed to support businesses of all sizes, from small startups to large enterprises. For example, Coca-Cola uses Salesforce to manage its global customer relationships.
• Flexible Plans: Salesforce offers various pricing tiers, allowing businesses to scale their CRM usage as they grow. A small business might start with the Essentials plan and upgrade to Enterprise as their needs expand.
• Advanced Features: Provides robust tools and features that can scale as business needs evolve. Companies can leverage Salesforce’s AI-driven analytics to gain deeper insights as their data volumes grow.

Insightly

Customization Options: Custom Fields, Modules, and Workflows

• Custom Fields: Insightly allows for the creation of custom fields to capture specific business data. For instance, a manufacturing company can add custom fields to track production metrics.
• Custom Modules: Users can develop custom modules tailored to their business processes. For example, a financial institution might create modules to manage loan applications and approvals.
• Workflows: Workflow automation helps in optimizing business operations. For example, a service company can automate assigning service requests to the appropriate team members.

Scalability: How Insightly Supports Growing Businesses

• Scalable Platform: Insightly is built to support businesses as they grow, accommodating increasing data volumes and user numbers. For instance, a growing retail chain can scale up its use of Insightly to manage more stores and inventory.
• Integrated Ecosystem: Seamless integration with other business tools supports scalability. By integrating additional services, businesses can extend their capabilities.
• Flexible Deployment: Options for cloud deployment provide flexibility for growing businesses. A mid-sized company might start with a basic plan and later upgrade to a more advanced plan as its IT infrastructure evolves.

Integration Capabilities

Salesforce

Integration with Third-Party Applications

• AppExchange Marketplace: Salesforce offers many integrations through its AppExchange marketplace. These include popular tools like Mailchimp for email marketing, Slack for team collaboration, QuickBooks for accounting, and Google Workspace for productivity. The extensive range of third-party integrations makes it easy to connect Salesforce with the tools businesses already use, enhancing overall functionality and efficiency.

API Capabilities and Ecosystem

• Robust APIs: Salesforce provides extensive API capabilities, including REST, SOAP, and Bulk APIs, enabling custom integrations and data synchronization. The platform supports developers with comprehensive resources and tools, such as the Salesforce Developer Community and Trailhead modules. This allows businesses to create tailored solutions that meet their specific needs.

Insightly

Integration with Third-Party Applications

• Extensive Integrations: Insightly integrates with numerous third-party applications to enhance its CRM capabilities. These integrations include tools like Google Workspace for email and calendar management, Microsoft Office for productivity, Slack for communication, and Mailchimp for email marketing. Insightly’s integrations help streamline business processes by connecting with the tools users rely on.

API Capabilities and Ecosystem

• Flexible API: Insightly offers a flexible API that allows developers to build custom integrations and automate workflows. The Insightly API supports RESTful operations and provides comprehensive documentation to assist developers. This enables businesses to extend Insightly’s functionality to meet unique requirements and integrate seamlessly with other systems.

Pricing and Plans

Salesforce

Overview of Pricing Tiers and What Each Includes

• Essentials: $25 per user/month – Basic CRM features, including contact and account management, lead management, email integration, and basic reporting. Ideal for small businesses starting with CRM.
• Professional: $75 per user/month—Includes all Essentials features, plus advanced sales forecasting, collaborative forecasting, and campaign management. Suitable for growing businesses needing more advanced tools.
• Enterprise: $150 per user/month—This plan includes All Professional features, plus workflow and approval automation, customizable sales processes, and advanced reporting. It is designed for larger businesses with complex needs.
• Unlimited: $300 per user/month—This plan includes All Enterprise features, plus unlimited customizations, priority support, and additional administrative tools. It is best for large enterprises requiring extensive customization and support.

Value for Money and Cost Considerations

Salesforce’s pricing reflects its extensive feature set and scalability. While the higher cost can be a barrier for smaller businesses, the comprehensive tools and capabilities.

Provided justify the investment for larger enterprises and those requiring advanced customization. Businesses benefit from Salesforce’s robust support, extensive integrations, and powerful analytics.

Insightly

Overview of Pricing Tiers and What Each Includes

• Plus: $29 per user/month – Basic CRM features, including contact management, project management, and custom fields. Suitable for small businesses.
• Professional: $49 per user/month—Includes all Plus features, plus workflow automation, email templates, and custom reports. Ideal for growing businesses needing more advanced tools.
• Enterprise: $99 per user/month—This plan offers all the Professional features plus advanced customization, a dedicated account manager, and advanced reporting. It is designed for larger businesses with complex needs.

Value for Money and Cost Considerations

Insightly offers competitive pricing, making it an attractive option for small—to medium-sized businesses. The tiers are designed to provide value at different levels of business growth, with features that scale according to the business’s needs.

The lower price points and user-friendly interface make Insightly a cost-effective solution for businesses seeking a straightforward CRM with integrated project management.

User Experience and Support

User Interface and Ease of Use

Salesforce: User Interface Design, Navigation, and Learning Curve

• Design and Navigation: Salesforce’s Lightning Experience features a modern, sleek design focusing on usability and efficiency. However, the interface can be complex due to its extensive features and customization options.
• Learning Curve: Salesforce’s learning curve is steeper than Insightly’s. Users often require dedicated training sessions to navigate and utilize the platform effectively.
• Example: A large enterprise might invest in several weeks of training for its sales team to fully leverage Salesforce’s capabilities.

Insightly: User Interface Design, Navigation, and Learning Curve

• Design and Navigation: Insightly offers a simple, user-friendly interface. The drag-and-drop functionality for pipeline management and project integration is a standout feature.
• Learning Curve: Insightly’s learning curve is relatively flat. New users can quickly get up to speed with minimal training.
• Example: A small marketing agency can start using Insightly with a brief onboarding session, allowing them to focus on their core activities without lengthy training.

Customer Support

Salesforce: Support Channels, Response Times, and User Reviews

• Support Channels: Salesforce offers multiple support channels, including phone, email, live chat, and a comprehensive knowledge base. Higher-tier plans receive priority support with faster response times.
• Response Times: Response times can vary based on the support plan. Premium support provides quicker resolutions.
• User Reviews: Users often praise Salesforce for its robust support infrastructure but note variability in response times.
• Example: An enterprise-level client needing immediate technical support might benefit from Salesforce’s priority response for critical issues.

Insightly: Support Channels, Response Times, and User Reviews

• Support Channels: Insightly offers support through email, live chat, and a detailed online knowledge base. It also offers phone support for higher-tier plans.
• Response Times: Response times are generally quick, especially for customers on higher-tier plans.
• User Reviews: Reviews frequently highlight Insightly’s responsive support and the helpfulness of their customer service team.
• Example: A small business can rely on Insightly’s live chat for prompt assistance with any issues.

Implementation and Onboarding

Salesforce

Implementation Process and Onboarding Support

• Implementation Process: Salesforce’s implementation can be complex, often requiring the assistance of certified consultants or implementation partners, especially for large and complex deployments. The process involves initial setup, data migration, customization, and integration with other business systems.
• Onboarding Support: Salesforce offers extensive onboarding programs, including guided setups and personalized support to ensure a smooth transition. New users can access one-on-one coaching sessions and detailed implementation guides.
• Example: A multinational corporation might need several months to fully implement Salesforce across all its departments, often relying on a dedicated implementation team to manage the process.

Training Resources and Documentation

• Trailhead Platform: Salesforce’s Trailhead platform provides a wealth of training resources, including interactive modules, hands-on projects, and certifications. This platform helps users learn at their own pace.
• Additional Resources: Extensive documentation, webinars, and user guides help users and administrators maximize the platform. Customized training sessions and workshops address specific needs.
• Example: An HR manager new to Salesforce can complete Trailhead modules on employee data management to become proficient in using the platform.

Insightly

Implementation Process and Onboarding Support

• Implementation Process: Insightly’s implementation process is straightforward and can often be managed internally without external consultants. The process includes initial setup, data import, customization, and basic integration with other tools.
• Onboarding Support: Insightly provides a guided setup that walks users through the initial configuration, data import, and customization steps. Users can also access personalized onboarding support for a smooth transition.
• Example: A small marketing agency can set up Insightly in a matter of days, thanks to its intuitive setup process and user-friendly interface.

Training Resources and Documentation

• Training Resources: Insightly offers various training resources, including an extensive knowledge base, video tutorials, and webinars, to help users get started and make the most of the platform.
• Additional Resources: The Insightly Academy provides courses and certifications to help users deepen their platform knowledge. Detailed documentation and community forums are also available for additional support.
• Example: A sales manager can watch video tutorials on setting up sales pipelines and automating follow-ups to quickly become proficient with Insightly.

Pros and Cons

Salesforce

Advantages and Benefits

• Extensive Customization: Salesforce allows businesses to tailor the CRM to their needs with custom fields, modules, and workflows, offering high flexibility.
• Scalability: Ideal for large and growing enterprises, with robust tools that scale as business needs evolve.
• Advanced Features: Includes AI-driven analytics, extensive third-party integrations, and comprehensive automation tools to support complex business processes.
• Strong Support Network: This network provides a wealth of resources, including the Trailhead learning platform and a vibrant user community, ensuring users have access to continuous learning and support.

Disadvantages and Limitations

• High Cost: Generally, it has a higher price point, especially for advanced features and customizations, which can be a barrier for smaller businesses.
• Complexity: The extensive feature set can result in a steep learning curve and require significant training and resources to manage effectively.
• Implementation Time: Longer implementation times, often requiring external consultants, especially for large-scale deployments.

Insightly

Advantages and Benefits

• User-Friendly Interface: Offers an intuitive and easy-to-use interface, making it accessible for users with minimal training. The drag-and-drop functionality simplifies pipeline management.
• Affordable Pricing: Competitive pricing makes it an attractive option for small—to medium-sized businesses. It provides value at different levels of business growth.
• Integrated Project Management: Combines CRM and project management features, making it ideal for businesses that manage projects alongside customer relationships.
• Quick Implementation: Faster implementation process that can often be managed internally, reducing the need for external consultants and minimizing setup time.

Disadvantages and Limitations

• Limited Advanced Features: Some advanced features available in Salesforce might be limited or absent in Insightly, which can be a drawback for businesses requiring highly complex functionalities.
• Scalability Constraints: While scalable, it may not offer the same level of scalability and performance for very large enterprises as Salesforce.
• Customization Limits: While customizable, it does not offer the same extensive customization capabilities as Salesforce, which may limit its suitability for businesses with highly specific needs.

Also, check out our guide, Salesforce vs SugarCRM.

Salesforce vs Insightly FAQ

What are the main differences between Salesforce and Insightly?
Salesforce offers extensive customization and advanced features for large enterprises. Insightly focuses on user-friendly CRM and project management features for small to medium-sized businesses.

Which CRM is better for small businesses?
Insightly is often better for small businesses due to its affordable pricing and straightforward interface.

Is Salesforce more expensive than Insightly?
Yes, Salesforce generally has a higher price point, especially for advanced features and customizations.

Can Salesforce handle large-scale operations?
Yes, Salesforce is highly scalable and designed for large-scale operations, making it ideal for large enterprises.

Does Insightly integrate with other business tools?
Insightly integrates with various business tools such as Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Slack, and Mailchimp.

Which CRM has a steeper learning curve?
Salesforce has a steeper learning curve due to its extensive features and customization options. Insightly is more user-friendly and easier to learn.

Can both CRMs be customized?
Yes, both Salesforce and Insightly offer customization options, but Salesforce provides more extensive customization capabilities.

Which CRM offers better customer support?
Both CRMs offer good customer support. Salesforce provides different support levels based on pricing tiers, while Insightly offers responsive support with various channels.

Do both CRMs offer mobile access?
Yes, Salesforce and Insightly support mobile access through their respective mobile apps.

Which CRM is better for project management?
Insightly is specifically designed with project management features, making it ideal for businesses needing integrated CRM and project management.

Is there a free version of Insightly?
Insightly offers a free version with limited features suitable for very small businesses or startups. Salesforce does not have a free version but offers a free trial.

Do both CRMs offer marketing automation?
Yes, both Salesforce and Insightly offer marketing automation tools, though Salesforce provides more advanced options.

Which CRM is faster to implement?
Insightly is generally faster to implement due to its straightforward setup and user-friendly design. Salesforce may require more time and resources for implementation.

Can I integrate third-party applications with these CRMs?
Yes, both Salesforce and Insightly support integration with third-party applications. Salesforce offers a broader range of integrations through its AppExchange marketplace.

Which CRM offers better value for money?
Insightly offers better value for small to medium-sized businesses looking for an affordable and easy-to-use CRM. Salesforce provides excellent value for large enterprises needing advanced features and scalability.